Q: When taking a client out to lunch or dinner, what’s the rule of thumb regarding when it’s appropriate to start talking business?

A: Business meals have two important components: One involves conducting any business the host wants to address; the other involves an opportunity to build a relationship. It’s important to leave time for both.

At business lunches or power breakfasts, the service tends to be faster and the meals typically have fewer courses — therefore, “getting down to business” occurs sooner. At these meals, it’s usually acceptable to start talking business once the waiter has taken your order.

At a dinner, where the pace is slower, business talk usually commences after the main course. In either case, the host should always initiate any discussion of business matters.

A: No, that would be a double mistake. Never give anyone higher up the ladder gift. It’ll irritate colleagues because it will look like you’re kissing up. Instead, give a group gift. Second mistake: Don’t give alcohol in a business situation. Safe gifts are theater tickets, a plant, an antique print featuring a favorite activity, or a restaurant certificate. Keep it to $5 to $10 per person.

Being able to initiate, build and strengthen business relationships is a valuable and marketable professional skill, whether there’s an economic downturn or not. These are the skills you learn and refine in business etiquette seminars.

There’s a refresher on some of the basics (Which fork? Who do I introduce to whom? Is it OK to check my email in a meeting?). But you also learn how to communicate with your Millennial co-workers when you’re a Baby Boomer. You learn why tone and attitude can make or break your daily interactions. And you pick up tips on how to walk up to three strangers and start networking–whether you’re looking for a job or a big contract.

So if you’re looking for a job, or just trying to keep the one you have, don’t forget about an asset you may not being making the most of: good manners.